Santa's Castle

Winter break is just around the corner, and there sure are a lot of fun activities to do in the midwest. 

Located in West Bend, ice skating is available for all ages. There is no fee for children under the age of four. An individual season pass is $42, but for a day, trip fees are $3 per person. The hours vary, but typically every weekend the rink is open from 1-4pm and 7-9pm on Saturdays and 2-5pm on Sundays. They can be contacted on Facebook or you can call them at (515) 887-2371. Hours and rink status can be located on their answering machine.

Mount Kato, located in Mankato, Minnesota, is a ski resort with hills for all levels of skiers to enjoy. From 19 skiing trails, four tubing hills, and a ski park, there is something for children and adults to enjoy. They offer lessons for new beginners, as well as ski, helmet, pole, boot, and snowboard rentals. The resort is open everyday from 9:30am to 10pm. Dylan Alt says, “I have gone to Mount Kato for years and I definitely plan on returning. It is so fun!”

A horse-drawn sleigh ride through the trails of Granger is a fun thing to do this winter. A two horse, open sleigh ride can last up to 45 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Reservations are required a day in advance, and if there is no snow on the ground, a wagon would be available instead of the sleigh. 

Boone is offering a train ride filled with snacks and drinks. The ride travels along some of the most beautiful views across a bridge 156 feet in the air. Sometimes, Santa makes an appearance with a gift for each person! There will be different stories and carols told during the ride. 

One final must do this winter is to pop a visit to Storm Lake and check out Santa’s Castle. With Santa Claus there himself to take wishes for Christmas gifts, there is plenty of magic to be revealed while traveling through Christmas throughout the century. You can also find over 20 hidden cartoon TVs located across the castle for a fun adventure. 

It is time to start planning all of your snow day adventures and holiday fun! Don’t miss out on a truly magical experience this holiday season!